Goals for Baccalaureate Graduates
Inspired by our Catholic identity and common mission to work together for the purpose of empowering our graduates to transform society, students will embark upon the interdisciplinary process of becoming more capable thinkers, lifelong learners, ethical actors, and advocates for justice and peace in our global society.
Students completing a Newman University
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM understand:
The Human Story
The Creative Spirit
The Universe We Live In
The Quest for Meaning
Students completing a Newman University
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM can:
Reason Effectively
Communicate Effectively
Students completing a Newman University
UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE PROGRAM:
Respect Dignity
Honor Integrity
Embrace Humanity
Participate in the Newman Community
Live in the Spirit of Critical Consciousness
Newman Studies Program
Blessed Saint John Henry Newman presents his vision for a Catholic university education in his famous book, The Idea of a University. Newman extols the value of all the disciplines, from literature to science to business, but argues that they must be deeply rooted in the liberal arts and ultimately brought together in a pursuit of Truth and Goodness. For Newman, a university education should produce an enlargement of mind that allows the graduate not merely to succeed in society, but to elevate it. The Newman Studies Program encompasses the ideas developed by Blessed Saint John Henry Newman.
Every undergraduate who earns a baccalaureate degree at Newman University is required to complete the Newman Studies Program (NSP). The NSP is divided into three tiers (Skills Courses, General Education Courses and Capstone courses). Each tier supports the goals for the Newman baccalaureate graduate. Both the general education tier and capstone tier are divided into four areas: (i) The Human Story, (ii) The Creative Spirit, (iii) The Universe We Live In, and (iv) Quest for Meaning. A description of these four areas is described in the General Education Courses section below.
The NSP creates a common experience for Newman students of all majors and backgrounds and is designed to teach students how to think about the world around them in both disciplinary and interdisciplinary ways. The skills tier consist of intensive, skills-based courses which emphasize writing, speaking, mathematics and information technology to allow students to effectively engage college level coursework. The program continues with the general education tier. These courses offer students a body of knowledge and cultivate dispositions. In addition, they also intentionally address ways disciplines explore the world, define questions and posit answers. Finally, the capstone tier consists of a series of capstone courses which examines problems or issues that cross disciplinary boundaries. Here students will draw the elements of their education together, considering these problems or issues from the perspective of two or more disciplines as well as again practicing the skills necessary to be a successful student and citizen.
Students who enter Newman with an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a nationally accredited institution or a Baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited 4-year institution are not required to take: (i) Skills Level Courses and (ii) general education level courses with the exception of theology and philosophy requirements. (Some majors may require a third course - please consult with an academic advisor). For clarity, in order to complete the Newman Studies Program, these students are required to take a maximum of 4 courses, which is 12 credit hours, meeting the following criteria:
- One Theology Course from the list of General Education Quest for Meaning Courses
- One Philosophy Course from the list of General Education Quest for Meaning Courses
- *One Capstone Course from the Quest for Meaning (Course Identification Number: NSP 4703 QM)
- *One Capstone Course that is philosophy focused, which can be taken from either the Human Story, Creative Spirit, or Universe We Live In. (An academic advisor will assist the student in determining which courses meet the requirement of a philosophy focused course).
* Course must be taken at Newman University
Skills Tier
(4 courses, minimum 12 credit hours)
To fulfill the Skills Tier a student must complete the 4 required courses listed in the table below:
Reason Effectively: The ability to reason effectively, quantitatively and qualitatively, is a skill not simply applied in an academic arena, but one that will benefit the graduate throughout his or her life. It allows graduates to assess evidence, make decisions effectively, and, perhaps most importantly, to know when there is insufficient evidence to make a reasoned argument. Students will demonstrate proficiency in thinking, expression, argumentation and communication.
Communicate Effectively: Communication helps us to learn who we are and what we think. It is the language of the mind, a way toward helping us understand the human story, the creative spirit, the universe we live in, and the quest for meaning. Students will demonstrate effective written, verbal and nonverbal communication in various settings.
Required Courses
General Education Tier
(8 courses, minimum 24 credit hours)
To fulfill the General Education Tier a student must complete:
- 3 courses from “ ” list of courses
- 2 courses from “ ” list of courses
- 1 course from “ ” list of courses
- 2 courses from “ ” list of courses (One Theology Course & One Philosophy Course)
Only one course from a discipline may be used, so that eight (8) different disciplines must be completed to satisfy general education requirements. Disciplines are defined by the prefixes to the courses. A course that is cross-listed counts toward both prefixes for this purpose (in other words, if a student takes a course cross-listed as history and political science, neither a second course in history nor in political science could be used to meet general education requirements).
No more than 2 courses from General Education may count towards a major.
Capstone Tier
(4 courses, 12 credit hours, must be taken at Newman University)
These Capstone courses are interdisciplinary, often team-taught courses with relatively small enrollments (capped at 25) that examine a particular issue or problem. Prerequisites for these Capstone courses are sophomore standing and completion of the NSP Skills Courses.
To fulfill the Capstone Tier a student must complete:
- 1 “ ” Capstone Course
- 1 “ ” Capstone Course
- 1 “ ” Capstone Course
- 1 “ ” Capstone Course
NOTES:
- NSP 4703 - The Quest for Meaning will be taught/co-taught by a Theology faculty member.
- Out of the 4 Capstone courses, one Capstone Course must be philosophy focused, which can be taken from either the “Human Story”, “Creative Spirit”, or “Universe We Live In”.
- Philosophy focused courses are generally taught or co-taught by a philosophy instructor.
- Philosophy focused courses are labeled as either NSP 4153 , NSP 4353 , NSP 4553 or one of the following courses: , or BSAD 3193 - Business Ethics
- Students graduating with a BSN meet this requirement through completing the nursing curriculum due to the heavy emphasis on ethics throughout the Nursing Curriculum.
- Students graduating from the School of Education meet this requirement by taking EDUC 3113 - Foundation and Philosophy of Education .
- No more than 1 course from the 4 capstone courses may count toward a major
- Exception: Externally accredited programs (School of Education and School of Nursing and Allied Health) may count two capstone courses toward major requirements.
Capstone courses may be repeated with a change in topic/title.
Scholars Day
The Newman Studies Program (NSP) affords students the opportunity to present an original, faculty supervised work to an audience of their peers. The presentation may occur during the official Scholars Day event (held each semester on the Newman University campus) or through another venue approved by the NSP committee. Students completing a bachelor’s degree under the Newman Studies Program must enroll and successfully pass this course. This zero-credit hour course is graded pass/fail and is a requirement for graduation. Failure to complete Scholars Day will result in a grade of “F.” No incompletes will be provided for this course.
Multiple Degrees
Students who enter Newman with a baccalaureate degree from regionally accredited colleges/universities who attend Newman University to obtain a second baccalaureate degree are not required to take: (i) Skills Level Courses and (ii) general education level courses with the exception of theology and philosophy requirements. (Some majors may require a third course - please consult with an academic advisor). For clarity, in order to complete the Newman Studies Program, these students are required to take a maximum of 4 courses, which is 12 credit hours, meeting the following criteria:
- One Theology Course from the list of General Education Quest for Meaning Courses
- One Philosophy Course from the list of General Education Quest for Meaning Courses
- *One Capstone Course from the Quest for Meaning (Course Identification Number: NSP 4703 QM)
- *One Capstone Course that is philosophy focused, which can be taken from either the Human Story, Creative Spirit, or Universe We Live In. (An academic advisor will assist students in determining which courses meet the requirement of a philosophy focused course).
- Philosophy focused courses are generally taught or co-taught by a philosophy instructor.
- Philosophy focused courses are labeled as either NSP 4153 , NSP 4353 , NSP 4553 or one of the following courses: , or BSAD 3193 - Business Ethics
- Students graduating with a BSN meet this requirement through completing the nursing curriculum due to the heavy emphasis on ethics throughout the Nursing Curriculum.
- Students graduating from the School of Education meet this requirement by taking EDUC 3113 - Foundation and Philosophy of Education .
* Course must be taken at Newman University
A minimum of 30 resident hours must be taken beyond the first degree in order to obtain a second degree.
Academic Honors
Dean’s List
Students completing 12 or more credit hours at the end of a semester are included on the Dean’s List if they have attained a grade point average of 3.5 for that semester. Students receiving an “IN” (incomplete) grade (unless for an approved two semester honors project) will not be included on the Dean’s List.
Graduation Honors
Eligibility for graduation honors is based on the following criteria:
Baccalaureate degree candidate:
cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above
minimum of 62 resident hours
(excludes nontraditional credit).
Graduation honors indicated on the diploma and transcript are:
SUMMA CUM LAUDE 3.9 cumulative GPA
MAGNA CUM LAUDE 3.7 cumulative GPA
CUM LAUDE 3.5 cumulative GPA
Students who do not meet the 62 resident hour requirement for graduation honors but have a 3.5 or above GPA receive the designation “Academic Commendation” on their transcript.
Students earning a second degree will have honors calculated only on the courses that are used to meet second degree requirements.
Honors Program
The Honors Program at Newman University is designed to help high-achieving students meet their full academic potential through a variety of enhanced educational and co-curricular opportunities. The program challenges students both inside and outside the classroom to stimulate their intellectual growth and become part of a community that values and enjoys academic pursuits. It also allows each student to pursue his or her own interests within an atmosphere that encourages participants to transform society.
The Honors Program includes:
Special seminars in students’ freshman and senior years designed to sharpen critical-thinking skills and explore new ways of looking at the world.
- Dedicated honors classes of regular catalog courses.
- The chance to tailor regular catalog courses for honors credit.
- The opportunity to get to know professors personally and work with them on a one-on-one basis.
- Recognition for Honors Program achievements reflected on Newman transcript.
- The option of participating in an on-campus living/learning community.
Criteria to apply for the Honors Program
High school seniors must have a cumulative GPA of 3.7 or above and a composite ACT score of 25 or above. Transfer students must have a college GPA of at least 3.75.
Honors Program Requirements:
For incoming freshmen or students joining the program as Newman students:
HNRS 1103 - Freshman Honors Seminar
HNRS 4203 - Senior Honors Thesis (2 semesters)
Honors Electives: 18 credit hours composed of any combination of courses listed in the “honors program” section of the catalog, courses identified as honors courses by individual departments and honors options. At least 9 of these hours must be earned in classes outside the school or division in which the student receives his/her major.
For transfer students entering Newman with 15-45 hours completed:
HNRS 1103 - Freshman Honors Seminar
HNRS 4203 - Senior Honors Thesis (2 semesters)
Honors Electives: 15 credit hours composed of any combination of courses lited in the “honors program” section of teh catalog, courses identified as honors courses by individual departments, and honors options. At least 9 of these hours must be earned in classes outside the school or division in which the student receives his/her major.
For transfer students entering Newman with over 45 hours completed:
HNRS 4203 - Senior Honors Thesis (2 semesters)
Honors Electives: 15 credit hours composed of any combination of courses listed in the “honors program” section of the catalog, courses identified as honors courses by individual departments, and honors options. At least 9 of these hours must be earned in classes outside the school or division in which the student receives his/her major.
First time freshmen entering Newman with more than 30 credits of college coursework (for example, AP credit, concurrent coursework, etc.), must fulfill the requirements for transfer students entering with 14-45 hours completed as laid out above.
Honors Program graduates will be recognized as such with a notation on their transcript, on their diploma, and in the graduation program.
Graduation Rate
As required by the Student Right-to-Know Act of 1990, Newman University hereby discloses that the graduation rate for degree-seeking full-time freshmen at Newman for the six year reporting period beginning with the 2013 fall semester is 53%.
Class Attendance
Class attendance policy is established by the instructor in each course. If circumstances arise which make it impossible for a student to attend class, the instructor should be notified and the work missed made up to the satisfaction of the instructor. If absences are excessive, the instructor may ask the student to withdraw from the class or recommend to the provost and vice president for academic affairs that the student be asked to withdraw from the class.
Academic Advisors
Academic advising is provided to all degree-seeking students at Newman University. It combines guidance towards a successful degree completion with course selection and course changes. Advising is primarily conducted by full-time faculty, although some staff and part-time faculty advise certain groups of students.
An advisor’s authorization is required for registration, course changes and the application for graduation. Each student is assigned a specific advisor who maintains information pertinent to offering him or her academic advising. For this reason, students are asked to refrain from seeking permission to enroll in courses from faculty or staff other than their advisor or the school director or division chair.
Academic advising carries with it responsibilities for students. Each student must make sure to keep track of his or her progress toward a degree. Academic advising is a service offered by faculty and some professional staff, but it does not diminish the responsibility of the student to make sure that requirements for graduation and academic progress are met.
A change in advisor is to be made as educational objectives change or a major is chosen. Forms are available in the Registrar’s Office.
Testing Program
The testing program at Newman University is designed to meet student and institutional needs.
English and Mathematics Placement Examinations
Students new to Newman who have not completed College Writing 1 and 2 are required to take an English placement examination prior to registration for classes. Students who have not completed College Algebra or Math for the Liberal Arts or a higher level math course are required to go through a math placement process in order to help students and advisors in their selection of an appropriate mathematics course. Math Placement Instructions:
- An ACT score in mathematics (or SAT equivalency) can be used for math placement if the student has taken the ACT within the last 5 years.
- A student must take the Newman Math Placement Exam (in a monitored setting) if within the past 5 years the student has no Math ACT score and no college mathematics credit.
- Any student may opt to take the Newman Math Placement Exam (in a monitored setting). For example, a student may wish to take the Newman Math Placement Exam if the student has a Math ACT score that appears to place the student in a lower course than expected.
- Advisors and students should be aware that regardless of the Math ACT or Newman’s Math Placement score, some mathematics courses require prerequisite high school or college mathematics coursework.
Students failing to meet the minimum required score on the Placement Exam will be required to enroll in a lower level remediation course.
CLEP (College Level Examination Program)
CLEP offers credit for introductory college-level subjects. More than 25 different exams are offered through this program sponsored by the College Board. Credit achieved through CLEP exams is considered transfer credit and is assigned no letter grade. An official CLEP transcript must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office for evaluation. The Academic and Student Support Services Office at Newman administers CLEP exams by appointment.
DANTES Examination
DANTES offers college credit for over 35 subjects in the areas of social science, business, humanities, physical science and applied technology and is sponsored by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Credit achieved through DANTES is considered transfer credit and is assigned no letter grade. An official DANTES transcript must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office for evaluation.
International Baccalaureate
International Baccalaureate is a comprehensive program of study for high school students which culminates in examinations for the international Baccalaureate diploma. Newman University will grant up to 30 hours of credit to students with scores of 4, 5, 6, or 7.
Proficiency Examination Program (PEP)
This American College Testing program has been endorsed for credit award by the faculty. Check with the appropriate division chairperson if you are desirous of credit through a PEP examination.
Credit by Departmental Examination
Credit may be obtained by successfully completing end-of-course examinations designed and administered by Newman University faculty. Students wishing to obtain credit in this manner should check with the appropriate faculty member. Forms for validation of this credit may be obtained in the Academic and Student Support Services Office. Credit by Departmental Examination is considered experiential learning credit and is subject to the same policies and guidelines listed for experiential learning credit in this catalog.
Personal Development Courses
Preparatory courses in English and math are available to students at Newman University. These courses are listed under the respective department in the course listings and are offered for credit. No more than a total of nine credit hours of personal development courses will be accepted toward graduation. In the case of transfer students, credits that transfer are limited to courses that are applied toward graduation at the initial institution.
Enrollment in 0-Level and General Studies Courses
Enrollment by students with junior or senior standing in 0-level or GNST (General Studies) courses requires the written permission of the chair of the division in which the course resides. Lack of such permission will result in administrative withdrawal of the student from the course.
Number of Majors and Minors
A student may earn more than one major. However, should a student elect to pursue more than one major, he/she must assume the responsibility for any extra courses which may be needed to fulfill the requirements for the additional major. Furthermore, a student may not obtain more than two majors in any one school or more than a total of three minors.
Double Majors
Students who are earning two majors may use a requirement in one major as an elective in the second major. No more than two courses may be used in this manner.
Cooperative Program with Friends University
Many undergraduate courses offered by Friends University are open to Newman University students for cross-registration on a space available basis. These courses are counted as resident credit at Newman University.
The student exchange program is designed to enrich the educational opportunities of Newman and Friends’ students. Libraries of the two institutions house more than 200,000 volumes, all of which are available to both campuses.
Independent Study
An independent study course is one initiated and pursued by a student under the direction of a faculty member. The requirements for the course and number of hours credited to the study will be determined mutually by the student and the faculty member.
Independent study may be for one to three hours, or if an Honors project, four hours. The content of the study may not duplicate an existing course described in this catalog. Independent study is available to students admitted to Newman University. Independent study courses are identified by the numbers 499-, except in the Physical Science Department where they are identified by the number 289-. An approved proposal is required to be filed at the time of registration. No more than 15 credit hours may be earned in independent study.
No more than a total of 16 credit hours towards a baccalaureate degree may be earned in cooperative education internships and independent study.
Courses offered by independent study or by conference must fit into one of the regularly scheduled time frames for the semester (full semester or 8-week). The published add, drop and withdrawal dates for each session will also apply to independent studies and conference courses.
Academic Year
The academic year is divided into two semesters, the fall semester and the spring semester. The college provides sessions during the summer as well as mini-terms during the academic year. Detailed information for each semester or session can be obtained from the Registrar’s Office.
Credit
The unit of credit is the semester hour.
RESIDENT CREDIT-Credit for courses which must be taken on the Newman University campus, at one of Newman’s outreach sites and/or as defined by the academic policy-making body.
EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING CREDIT-Resident credit awarded for those learnings which occur through the extension of the classroom and outside formal instructional channels. Although nontraditional credit is considered resident credit it does not meet the resident hour requirement for graduation. Experiential Learning Credit includes:
- Credit by Examination (CBE)-The successful completion of an examination designed and administered by Newman University faculty to assess competence gained in a particular subject; and
- Portfolio Assessment-Evaluation of a portfolio submitted for recognition of knowledge gained through work and/or life experience that is equivalent to the knowledge gained by taking a specific college course. Experience must be directly related to an academic discipline offered at Newman University.
Experiential Learning Credit is subject to the following guidelines:
- Approval is limited to students matriculated at Newman University.
- In general, any described work or life experience may be used for only one experiential learning course.
- Experiential Learning Credit will not be granted for a course for which the student has previously received credit.
- Evaluation is done by the faculty in the related department.
- Fees are charged for the evaluation and validation of credit.
- A form indicating the credit sought and supporting information is available in the Academic and Student Support Services Office and must be filed there by the student.
- If approved, a grade of “Pass” will be given. A grade of “Pass” is NOT calculated in the grade point average and for purposes of Nontraditional credit, assumes achievement at a level of “C” or better.
- A maximum of 12 credit hours.
- Students graduating in December must submit Experiential Learning Credit to the Academic and Student Support Services Office no later than November 1 of that academic year. Students graduating in May must submit Experiential Learning Credit to the Academic and Student Support Services Office no later than March 15 of that academic year and students graduating in the summer must submit their work by April 15.
- Experiential Learning Credit will only be accepted for evaluation from August 15 through April 30 of each academic year.
- Experiential Learning credit cannot be transferred in from another institution.
TRANSFER CREDIT-Credit is accepted from other appropriately accredited institutions of higher education, approved standardized examinations (ACE, CLEP, DANTES, AP, etc.), and specifically approved professional programs. The maximum amount of community college transfer credit which may be applied to a baccalaureate degree is 62 credit hours. (Sixty-two (62) credit hours from a four-year college/university are required for a bachelor’s degree.) This limit, however, may vary depending on the program in which the student is enrolled. Correspondence courses may be transfer credit from other institutions of higher education and are limited to 15 credit hours. The number of transfer hours is posted on the student’s Newman transcript. Individual courses are not listed but the number of credit hours from each school attended is listed. The recorded cumulative grade point average for the transfer student is calculated only on credit earned through Newman University.
An Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree from a nationally accredited college will meet the requirements for Skills courses and some General Education courses. These students are required to take a maximum of four courses to complete the Newman Studies Program: one theology course and one philosophy course from the General Education level as well as NSP 4703 and NSP 4153 , BSAD 3193 , NSP 4353 , EDUC 3113 , or NSP 4553 . Students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree are required to complete only NSP 4703 and the theology and philosophy requirements from the General Education level.
Credit Hour Policy
Newman University operates on a semester schedule and awards academic credit based on the credit hour. The fall and spring semesters include courses that meet over a 16 week timeframe as well as courses that meet in an accelerated format (most commonly eight weeks) and in an online format. The summer “semester” includes courses that meet in a variety of timeframes, including four weeks, five weeks and eight weeks and online. Courses that are offered in a non-traditional format are collectively known as accelerated courses.
The standard seat time for a didactic course conforms to the generally accepted norm of requiring one hour of class time per week for 16 weeks for each credit hour awarded. Some accelerated courses include additional learning time (online video lectures, required field trips, etc.) that equalize the “seat times” of the course, whether it is offered in a traditional or non-traditional format. Laboratory and studio courses meet 2-3 hours per week for each credit hour. Clinical, laboratory, internship, and practicum courses vary in clock hour to credit hour ratios, but all conform to guidelines established by the professional guidelines of the content areas, but in no case are less than 2 weekly contact hours per credit hour. Federal Credit Hour Definition: A credit hour is an amount of work represented in intended learning outcomes and verified by evidence of student achievement that is an institutionally-established equivalency that reasonably approximates not less than: (1) one hour of classroom or direct faculty instruction and a minimum of two hours of out-of-class student work each week for approximately fifteen weeks for one semester or trimester hour of credit, or ten to twelve weeks for one quarter hour of credit, or the equivalent amount of work over a different amount of time; or (2) at least an equivalent amount of work as required in paragraph (1) of this definition for other activities as established by an institution, including laboratory work, internships, practica, studio work, and other academic work leading to the award of credit hours. 34CFR 600.2 (11/1/2010)
Courses that do not conform to the traditional meeting time model shall establish that student learning outcomes are identical to the traditional courses. This can be assured by establishing the volume and quality of student work (reading, writing, presentations, etc.) is equivalent and that evaluation tools (examinations, quizzes, papers, etc.) are equivalent in volume, scope, and rigor to the same course that is offered in the traditional format. In the case when an accelerated course is not also offered in a traditional format on campus, the equivalence of student learning shall be established by comparison of student learning expectations and outcomes with other institutions in the region, by administration of an externally validated instrument (e.g., MFAT exam) or by other means approved by the Learning Assessment Committee.
Student Classification
FRESHMAN-student who has earned fewer than 30 credit hours
SOPHOMORE-student with 30-59 credit hours
JUNIOR-student with 60-89 credit hours
SENIOR-student with 90 or more credit hours
UNCLASSIFIED-student who already has a baccalaureate degree and who is taking (a) course(s) for credit without expectation of another degree
Registration
Students register at the beginning of each semester and/or session on the dates published. The Admissions process must be completed before a student may register. The registration must be approved by the student’s advisor. Registration is not complete until payment has been satisfactorily arranged with Student Accounts. No subsequent registration will be permitted until the student’s account is paid in full.
ACADEMIC LOAD-A full-time undergraduate student registers for 12 or more hours a semester; a part-time student for 11 or less. To register for more than 18 hours, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or above and obtain approval of his/her advisor.
AUDIT COURSES-A student may audit a scheduled course by adding it to his/her registration as an “audit.” Records are kept of audit courses and a special tuition is charged. Transfer from credit to audit or from audit to credit registration is not permitted after the schedule-change period.
Prerequisite Course Enrollment
Enrollment in a course that is a prerequisite for a course in which the student has already received credit requires the written permission of the director of the school in which the course resides. Lack of such permission will result in administrative withdrawal of the student from the course.
Registration
Students are eligible to register for classes once they have been formally accepted into the University and met all admission obligations (immunization records, test scores, deposits have been received) Consultation with an academic advisor is required prior to registration. Students must not have an outstanding balance from a prior semester in order to enroll for a future term.
Add/Drop
During the published registration period, students may add/drop classes if a change to their schedule is necessary. The add/drop period extends through the first week of the session. Classes dropped within this time frame will be refunded provided payment has already been made.
Student Enrollment Cancellation
The add/drop period is the 1st week of each semester and/or part of term. Students reported by faculty for failing to attend, engage, or otherwise participate in 100% of enrolled classes during the add/drop period will have their enrollment canceled. Canceled enrollments during the add/ drop period will generate a 100% refund of any monies paid and may result in financial aid being recalled. Students should not assume that a faculty member will initiate the enrollment cancellation process. It is ultimately the responsibility of the student to add/drop/withdraw from any enrolled course, as it is also the ultimate responsibility of the student for payment options and financial aid obligations.
WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE-An official course withdrawal is completed by filing a written notice with the registrar. Signatures of the advisor and the instructor must be secured. The final date for withdrawing from a course is listed in the online semester schedule of classes. Should extenuating circumstances exist after this date, approval from the Academic Exceptions Committee must be obtained before a withdrawal can be authorized. There is no refund for an individual course withdrawal. The grade of W is issued and appears on the academic transcript.
WITHDRAWAL FROM A COURSE LESS THAN A FULL SEMESTER IN LENGTH-An official withdrawal is completed by filing a written notice with the registrar. This must be done PRIOR TO COMPLETION OF THREEFOURTHS OF THE CLASS MEETINGS. This procedure is the same as for withdrawal from a course.
There is no refund for an individual course withdrawal. The grade of W is issued and appears on the academic transcript.
WITHDRAWAL FROM NEWMAN UNIVERSITY-An official withdrawal from Newman University is a written statement from the student indicating withdrawal of one’s enrollment and filed with the registrar. The advisor’s signature and signatures from the Financial Aid Office (if applicable), and Student Accounts must be obtained on the form. THE UNIVERSITY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REQUIRE THE WITHDRAWAL OF A STUDENT WHOSE SCHOLARSHIP IS UNSATISFACTORY, OR WHOSE FURTHER ATTENDANCE IS NOT DEEMED TO BE OF BENEFIT TO THE STUDENT OR THE UNIVERSITY. The refund schedule for a complete withdrawal is published in the online schedule of classes. If the withdrawal from the University occurs after the add/drop period, the grade of W is issued for all classes and appears on the academic transcript.
WITHDRAWALS AFTER A GRADE IS AWARDED OR EARNED- Students may not withdraw from a course after a final grade has been awarded. Final grades may be awarded prior to the end of the course, typically but not exclusively, due to academic misconduct. Students may appeal grades awarded for misconduct by following the applicable academic appeal policy.
FINAL GRADES- Faculty may not change a final grade after it has been submitted to the registrar, except in the case of a numerical miscalculation.
Change of Major
Students wishing to change their major designation must begin the process with their academic advisor.
The change of major form is available online and in the Registrar’s Office. Upon changing majors, the catalog requirements will reflect the catalog in effect at the time of the major change.
Transcripts
Newman University offers current and previous students the option of online transcript ordering through the National Student Clearinghouse. This is available from Newman’s home page by clicking on Current Students/Registrar/ Transcripts. Newman’s charge for a transcript is $8 but additional fees may be charged by the Clearinghouse. Electronic transcript service is also available to students if the request is made through the Clearinghouse. Students will receive a “personal copy” transcript without charge at the time of graduation.
In accordance with public law 93-380 (11-1974), Newman University adheres to the policy of releasing a student’s record to a third party only upon the student’s written request or under the condition stipulated in Sec. 438 (2) (b) (1), except that appropriate student records will be maintained as necessary for normal operation by the student’s academic advisor(s) and other appropriate Newman personnel.
No transcript or letter of honorable dismissal will be released by the Registrar’s Office until all accounts are paid in full.
Student Self-Service Enrollment Verification
Students may log into their JetStream account and print enrollment verification documents as the need may arise. Enrollment verifications are often needed for health insurance purposes, discounted car insurance, reimbursements, etc. If the student is no longer currently enrolled, they may simply request an official transcript to verify their historical dates of attendance.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (PL 93-380)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. Students have the right to inspect and review their education records and to request the amendment of their records if they believe they are inaccurate or misleading. Students also have the right to file complaints with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Office concerning alleged failures by the institution to comply with the Act.
Under FERPA, information other than “directory information” cannot be given to a third party without the expressed written consent of the student with the exception of Newman officials and faculty for expressed educational interest. The university routinely publishes material classified as “directory information” which is acceptable within the Act. Newman University directory information includes the following: name; address (campus, home, e-mail); telephone numbers; Student ID; class standing (freshman, sophomore, etc.); major field(s) of study; course load status (full time, half time, etc.); dates of attendance; degree(s) conferred (including dates); awards; honors (including Dean’s List and graduation honors); past and present participation in officially recognized activities and sports; membership in campus organizations; physical factors (height, weight of athletes); photos of athletes; previous institution(s) attended. An individual, however, may direct that his or her name may not appear in directory information by notifying the registrar in writing at the time of his or her registration.
Questions concerning the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act may be referred to the Registrar’s Office.
Application for Degree
Degree applications are sent by the Registrar’s Office to students who indicate to the office they are graduating that semester via their Newman email address. Candidates for a degree must file an application for degree by the date published in the online schedule of classes. Failure to file by the designated date may result in the non-award of the degree for that semester. Students who complete degree requirements during the summer must file at the same time as the spring graduates. Summer graduates will receive their diploma at the completion of their summer course work. For all graduates, a degree will not be posted if the student has an “Incomplete” grade in any course. If degree requirements are not completed within the academic year in which the application was filed, a new application must be filed.
Midterm Grade Reports
Midterm grades and final grades are available to students through Newman’s website at www.newmanu.edu
Ethics Code
Newman University students are to function as ethical citizens including their work pursued in the academic community.
Integrity in the classroom is a definite expectation and is not to be violated in any manner. Violation of academic integrity includes:
- Cheating on examinations, written quizzes, and other written work;
- Plagiarism, defined as:
- the use of another’s written work without appropriate citation
- the use of another student’s work
- the purchase and/or use of an already prepared paper
- the use of Intellectual Properties (ideas or materials) from an author without proper documentation
- downloading of materials from the Internet or World Wide Web and submitting them for credit (or partial credit) as one’s own work;
- Any violation of state or federal fair use, copyright, patent, or privacy laws;
- Giving assistance to another person during an examination;
- Falsification or changing of any academic record;
- Falsification of research or clinical data;
- Obtaining, attempting to obtain, or distributing unauthorized examinations or examination questions;
- Use of a paper prepared for one course in another course without the evaluating professor’s knowledge and permission.
An infraction of the Newman ethical code by a student on an examination, written work, or quiz will result in an “F” for that work. An individual faculty member may impose a more severe penalty. Within a professional program an ethical infraction may be referred to a standing committee designated by program policy to review such occurrences.
Upon assignment of the consequence(s) the faculty/ director will complete the Ethics Infraction Form and submit it to the Provost’s Office for filing. Upon examination of the file the Provost may request a hearing of the Academic Review Board to review a pattern of ethical infractions.
A student who believes an error in judgment has occurred regarding either the infraction or the subsequent penalty may appeal the faculty decision. The request for appeal must be submitted in writing to the Provost within 30 days of receiving notice of the penalty.
Infractions of the ethical code requiring further review per the department’s request or per the student’s appeal will be adjudicated by the Academic Review Board. This Review Board consists of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, the School Director, and a faculty member of the student’s choosing. The University may dismiss a student for ethical infractions.
Course Evaluation and Grade Point Average
Final evaluations are required for all courses each semester.
The evaluation system emphasizes achievement of the objectives of a course recognizing degree of accomplishment. Grade point average is based on a four-point system and is determined by dividing the total number of grade points earned in courses completed by the total number of resident credit hours attempted. The GPA is calculated only on work taken at Newman University.
The following four-point grading system and grade descriptions are operative at the university:
A = 4.0 Extraordinary Achievement
The student:
- Gives consistent evidence of initiative, originality, intellectual curiosity, and critical interpretation;
- Manifests a wide acquaintance beyond the text with literature relevant to the subject;
- Demonstrates scholarly achievement measured by papers, examinations, and intelligent participation in class; and
- Comprehends and integrates principles of the course.
B = 3.0 Good Achievement
The student:
- Performs with consistent effort and unusually high interest in the course;
- Shows an understanding beyond that required for the course;
- Communicates with better than average literary style; and
- Contributes critical and interpretive insights.
C = 2.0 Average Achievement
The student:
- Participates in the work of the class;
- Demonstrates familiarity with lecture material, completes and comprehends assignments;
- Uses proper style, form, logical structure, and evidence of research in verbal and written communication; and
- Demonstrates intelligent inquiries.
D = 1.0 Marginal Achievement
The student:
- Participates in the work of the class;
- Demonstrates marginal comprehension of course material in the completion of all assignments;
- Is able to communicate with marginal style, form and logical structure; and
- Makes genuine and serious efforts to achieve course objectives.
P = 0.0 Passing
Credit earned with satisfactory achievement in courses so designated. Counted toward total hours for degree but excluded in the GPA calculation.
F = Failure
No credit earned, computed in GPA
WD = Official withdrawal
IN = Incomplete
A grade of “Incomplete” may be given only under extenuating circumstances, when failure to complete a course is due to no fault of the student. Extenuating circumstances may include current illness, serious personal problems, an accident, a recent death in the immediate family, a large and necessary increase in working hours, or other situations of equal gravity. The “IN” should not be based solely on a student’s failure to complete work or as a means of raising his or her grade by doing additional work after the course has ended. The student and instructor shall agree to a plan of study and a timeline to complete the course requirements. The course work must be completed no later than the end of the next regular semester. After this time, the “IN” automatically becomes an “F” (or other grade as indicated by the instructor at the time of application) and is included in the computation of the GPA. In case the instructor is not able to evaluate the student work, the dean of the school or his/her designee shall be empowered to evaluate the student work and assign a final grade. At the time of graduation, any remaining “IN” grades automatically change to an “F” and are included in the computation of the GPA.
Grade Appeal Policy/Process
| Issue |
Step 1 |
Step 2 |
Step 3 |
Decision Maker |
Final Decision Maker |
| Grade Appeal |
Student meets with instructor/faculty member. |
If no resolution then it moves onto Division Chair. |
If no resolution then it moves onto Dean. |
If no resolution then moves onto the Exceptions Committee. |
Exceptions Committee
(appeals at this level are only reviewed if a procedural error)
|
| Denial of Admission to program |
Student must appeal to Dean. |
If no resolution then it moves onto the Exceptions Committee. |
|
|
Exceptions Committee
(appeals at this level are only reviewed if a procedural error)
|
| Dismissal from academic program |
Student must appeal to Dean. |
If no resolution then it moves onto the Exceptions Committee. |
|
|
Exceptions Committee
(appeals at this level are only reviewed if a procedural error)
|
| Late add/drops withdrawl beyond deadline |
Requires instructor/ faculty member and Dean consent
(* NSP courses to be reviewed by Dean of Arts & Sciences)
|
|
|
|
Dean |
| Withdrawal (request to process as a drop) |
Review if balance owed. |
If balance, contact Student Accounts |
If Student Accounts “approves” then it goes to Exceptions |
|
Exceptions Committee |
| Audit to Credit/ Credit to Audit |
Requires instructor/faculty member and Dean consent. |
|
|
|
Dean |
| Extension of Incomplete Grades |
Requires instructor/faculty member and Dean consent. |
|
|
|
Dean |
| # of graduate transfer hours accepted |
Dean |
|
|
|
Dean |
| Course equivalency & substitutions |
If NSP course - goes to Exceptions Committee.
If major or Gen Ed, goes to Division Chair
|
|
|
|
Exceptions Committee OR
Division Chair
|
| Academic Probation/Suspension from NU |
Student petitions Exceptions Committee |
|
|
|
Exceptions Committee |
| Other appeals - consult with academic advisor |
|
|
|
|
|
This chart is for quick reference purposes only.
Please refer to the expanded policy for detailed directions.
Summer sessions are not considered regular semesters for the appeals process.
The Student Grade Appeal Process applies to all academic programs at the undergraduate level.
Only a final grade in a course may be appealed. Objections to grades on specific assignments may only be made in the context of a course grade appeal.
In any grade appeal procedure, the student making the appeal has the burden of proof in establishing a good cause for changing a final grade. Unless the student can offer convincing arguments to the contrary, good faith on the instructor’s part is presumed. When supported by sufficient evidence, any of the following reasons shall constitute “good cause” for challenging a final grade.
- The instructor assigned a grade based on an error in calculation or reporting.
- The instructor assigned a grade based on discrimination against a student’s age, sex, race, creed, color, national origin, ethnic origin, or disability.
- The instructor did not apply standards consistently to all students in the class.
- The instructor did not follow university policy or his or her own published guidelines in assigning a grade.
None of the following shall constitute “good cause” for appealing a final grade: Disagreement with the course requirements established by the professor.
Disagreement with the grading standards established by the professor.
Disagreement with the instructor’s judgment when applying grading standards, assuming that the instructor has made a reasonable effort to be fair and consistent in exercising that judgment. The student’s desire for or need of a particular grade.
Consequences that a student might face as the result of a grade.
Grade Appeal Procedures
- Step 1: Faculty-Student Conference
- A student wishing to appeal a grade shall first schedule a conference with the instructor who assigned that grade.
- The instructor-student conference shall take place within the first 10 class days (Monday through Friday) of the regular semester immediately following the semester that the disputed grade was assigned (summer sessions are not considered regular semesters).
- At the request of the student or the instructor, the School Director or Division Chair responsible for the course in question shall assign another departmental faculty member to witness the conference.
- The reasons for questioning the grade shall be stated by the student, and the reasons for assigning that particular grade shall be explained by the instructor.
- In a case where the instructor is not available for this conference (non-reappointment, retirement, death, extended absence from the area, or other debilitating circumstances), the instructor’s School Director or Division Chair shall act as the instructor of record.
- Outcome of the conference between instructor and student.
- If the instructor finds that no grade change is justified, the student shall be so notified at the end of the conference.
- If the instructor does decide to change the grade, the instructor shall complete a Change of Grade form and file it with the Registrar within five class days from the time that the conference occurs.
- Step 2: Appeal to the School Director or Division Chair
- Following the instructor-student conference, a student receiving an unfavorable decision may file an appeal with the School Director or Division Chair.
- The appeal to the School Director or Division Chair must be in writing and filed within ten class days of the instructor student conference, or within the first fifteen class days of the semester that the grade is eligible for appeal.
- If the student fails to contact the School Director or Division Chair within 15 class days of the beginning of the appropriate semester, the instructor’s grade award shall be considered final.
- The student’s written statement must include a justification that should conform to at least one of the criteria listed above for making a grade appeal.
- The appeal must include all completed copies of any written assignments, returned assignments, syllabi, or other written material referred to in the appeal letter.
- The School Director or Division Chair shall provide the instructor with a copy of all appeal materials, and the instructor shall submit a written justification for the assigned grade with supporting documentation.
- Within fifteen class days of receiving the student’s appeal, the School Director or Division Chair shall provide both the student and the instructor with a written notice of the director’s decision.
- If the School Director or Division Chair’s review determines that a change in grade is warranted, the director will forward the decision to the Provost, who will instruct the Registrar to change the grade if no further appeal is pursued.
- Both the student and the instructor have the right to appeal the School Director or Division Chair’s decision to the Provost.
- If the instructor is the School Director or Division Chair, the College Dean will hear the appeal. If the instructor is a School Director or Division Chair and Dean, the appeal will go directly to the Provost after the faculty student conference. If the instructor is the Provost, the Dean of the College offering the course will take the Provost’s place.
- Step 3: Appeal to the Dean
- The Student may appeal the Program Director or Division Chair’s decision to the Dean when one or more criteria for good cause apply. A request for review of the Program Director or Division Chair’s decision is made by filing a written statement with the Dean within ten class days of receiving the Program Director or Division Chair’s report.
- Within ten class days of receiving the written appeal, the Dean shall notify the Program Director or Division Chair and the instructor that an appeal has been filed.
- The Program Director or Division Chair and the instructor will forward their written report of the process to the Dean.
- The Dean may consider the appeal with review of available documentation which may include the student’s original appeal, the instructor’s written justification, the Program Director or Division Chair’s written report, the student’s written work for the course and all other documents the Program Dirctor Director or Division Chair may have used in reaching a decision.
- The Dean will inform the student, the Program Director or Division Chair in writing of the outcome of the appeal.
- Step 4 Appeal to the Exceptions Committee
- If the student alleges procedural errors in the Dean’s process, he/she may request a review of the Dean’s procedures to the Exceptions Committee by filing a written statement with the Exceptions Committee within ten class days of receiving the Dean’s report.
- Within ten class days of receiving the written appeal, the Exceptions Committee shall notify the Dean that an appeal has been filed.
- The Dean will forward his/her written report of the review of the procedures to the Exceptions Committee.
- The Exceptions Committee may request interviews with the student or with others whose information may have bearing on the appeal.
- The Exceptions Committee must reach a decision no later than the last day of regular classes before the final exam period of the semester when the appeal was filed. The Chair of the Committee will inform the student, the Program Director or Division Chair in writing of the decision of the Committee.
- If the Exceptions Committee determines that a procedural error has occurred, the Chair will inform the Provost who will assign the appeal for re-evaluation.
- The decision of the Exceptions Committee is final. Some grade appeal cases may present practical obstacles for pursuing the procedures precisely, as outlined above. In such circumstance, the Chair of the Exceptions Committee shall have the discretion to modify the procedures as little as possible to accommodate the special requirements of the situation. Requests for changes in deadlines or other elements of the grade appeal policy should be brought to the Chair of the Exceptions Committee.
Grade Change Deadline
All grade changes, except for incompletes, must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office no later than midterm of the semester following the semester in which the course was taken.
“D” Grade in Major Courses
A grade of “D” is not acceptable for upper division courses which are required for a student’s major, minor, area of concentration or associate degree. Some majors require a minimum of a “C” grade in all coursework. Please refer to program specific requirements in the later section of the catalog.
Repeating of Courses
Students may repeat any course they have taken previously. Only the result of the final course attempt will be used in the cumulative grade point average, but all grades remain on the academic transcript.
Academic Probation
Students who complete a regular semester with cumulative Newman University GPA of less than 2.0 shall be notified by the Registrar that they are on academic probation. This information is recorded on the student’s permanent transcript. Academic probation is official notice that he/ she is not making satisfactory academic progress towards degree completion. The student must raise the cumulative Newman University GPA to 2.0 or greater by the end of the next regular semester. A student on academic probation may not participate in or audition for theatre or music productions (with the exceptions of class-based requirements) or noncredit performing groups which are sponsored by or represent the university, may not hold office in student government or other student organizations officially recognized by the university, and may not serve on any committees related to university activity.
Student athlete eligibility to participate in intercollegiate athletic competition shall be governed by NCAA DII rules and overseen by the Athletic Compliance Officer.
Students who are placed on academic probation shall develop an academic contract with the Academic Advisor for Special Populations, which shall include (but not necessarily be limited to):
- Limiting the number of credit hours they take during the semester to no more than 14 credit hours.
- Documented visits with their advisor on a biweekly basis.
- Other measures deemed appropriate by the university.
For probation purposes, the summer session is not considered a semester.
Academic Suspension
A student on academic probation who fails to raise his/her cumulative Newman University GPA to 2.0 or greater by the end of the next regular semester of enrollment will be placed on academic suspension for one semester. Students may apply for reinstatement after the suspension is complete. Students seeking reinstatement shall develop an academic contract with Academic and Student Support Services, which shall include (but not necessarily be limited to):
- Limiting the number of credit hours they take during the semester to no more than 14 credit hours.
- A plan of study that includes grades needed for satisfactory academic progress.
- Documented meetings with their advisor (Academic & Faculty) on a biweekly basis.
- Other measures deemed appropriate by the university.
Students placed on academic probation following reinstatement will result in final academic suspension. This information is recorded on the student’s permanent transcript. Students have the right to appeal suspension decisions to the Academic Exceptions Committee.
Dismissal from or Denial of Admission to Academic Programs
Individual departments, schools and academic programs, at both the graduate and the undergraduate level, have a right to establish their own criteria for admission to, and dismissal from, any program or course of study.
- Programs that maintain separate requirements for admission or continuation must publish those requirements in an accessible format.
- Published requirements for each program should also include information on appealing a negative decision to departmental or programmatic personnel.
- Only current Newman University students may appeal denial of admission to specific academic programs.
- Any student dismissed from a program will be notified in writing of the available appeal processes and options.
- Current Newman University students who have applied to specific programs as well as dismissed students from specific programs for any reason must exhaust all departmental and programmatic appeal procedures before filing an appeal with the Dean.
- Only the following shall be considered good cause for appeal to the Dean:
- Evidence that published criteria for admission or continuation were not followed by the program or department.
- Evidence that published criteria for admission or continuation were not applied uniformly by the program or department
- Evidence of substantial procedural errors in earlier appeals.
- Evidence of discrimination on the grounds of a student’s age, sex, race, creed, color, national origin, ethnic origin, or handicap.
- The following shall not be considered good cause for appeal to the Dean:
- Disagreement with admission requirements or criteria for continuation in a program or course of study.
- Disagreement with the program or department’s application of its published criteria.
- Extenuating circumstances that may have affected a student’s ability to meet published admissions requirements or criteria for continuation, including specific physical requirements necessary to work in the field and criminal background checks and/or drug and alcohol testing. Such circumstances can only be considered on the programmatic or departmental level.
- The student’s desire for, or need of, a particular outcome.
- Consequences that a student might face as a result of a negative outcome to the appeal.
- If the student’s denial of admission to or continuation in a program is based solely on one or more grades in any Newman University course, the appeal should be handled as a grade appeal rather than appeal of denial of admission or continuation in a specific program.
Appeal of Denial of Admission to an Academic Program:
- Appeal to the Dean
Current Newman University students who have been denied admission to a specific program and who have been unsuccessful in appeals at the program or department level have the right to appeal to the Dean if they can demonstrate good cause for appeal. When considering filing an appeal:
- Understand that the appeal has already received a thorough review. However, there is an option to appeal the denial decision if the criteria for good cause are met (listed above.)
- Submission of an appeal does not guarantee that the appeal will be approved.
- The appeal to the Dean must be made in writing and received no more than ten class days after the date of the final programmatic or departmental appeal.
- In all cases, the student has the burden of proving all assertions made to appeal the denial of admission into an academic program. The appeal letter should include any documentation necessary to prove any statements.
- The Dean may consider the appeal with review of available documentation which may include, but is not limited to, the student’s original departmental appeal, the findings of earlier appeals, any documentary evidence submitted by the student or the department or program and the testimony of relevant witnesses.
- The Dean shall inform the student and Academic Affairs of the outcome of the appeal process. Academic Affairs will be responsible for informing the program director of the outcome.
- Appeal to the Exceptions Committee
If the student alleges procedural errors in the Dean’s process, he/she may request a review of the Dean’s procedures to the Exceptions Committee by filing a written statement with the Exceptions Committee within ten class days of receiving the Dean’s report.
- Within ten class days of receiving the written appeal, the Exceptions Committee shall notify the Dean that an appeal has been filed.
- The Dean will forward his written report of the appeal review procedures to the Exceptions Committee.
- The Exceptions Committee may request interviews with the student or with others whose information may have bearing on the appeal.
- The Exceptions Committee must reach a decision no later than the last day of regular classes before the final exam period of the semester when the appeal was filed. The Chair of the Committee will inform the student, the Program Director or Division Chair in writing of the decision of the Committee.
- If the Exceptions Committee determines that a procedural error has occurred, the Chair will inform the Provost who will assign the appeal for re-evaluation.
- The decision of the Exceptions Committee is final.
Appeal of Dismissal from an Academic Program:
- Appeal to the Dean
Current Newman University students who have been dismissed from a specific program and who have been unsuccessful in appeals at the program or department level have the right to appeal to the Dean if they can demonstrate good cause for appeal. When considering filing an appeal:
- Understand that the appeal has already received a thorough review. However, there is an option to appeal the deny decision if the criteria for good cause are met (listed above.)
- Submission of an appeal does not guarantee that the appeal will be approved.
- The appeal to the Dean must be made in writing and received no more than ten class days after the date of the final programmatic or departmental appeal.
- In all cases, the student has the burden of proving all assertions made to appeal the dismissal from an academic program. The appeal letter should include any documentation necessary to prove any statements.
- The Dean may consider the appeal with review of available documentation which may include, but is not limited to, the student’s original departmental appeal, the findings of earlier appeals, any documentary evidence submitted by the student or the department or program and the testimony of relevant witnesses.
- The Dean shall inform the student and Academic Affairs of the outcome of the appeal process. Academic Affairs will be responsible for informing the program director of the outcome.
- Appeal to the Exceptions Committee
If the student alleges procedural errors in the Dean’s process, he/she may request a review of the Dean’s procedures to the Exceptions Committee by filing a written statement with the Exceptions Committee within ten class days of receiving the Dean’s report.
- Within ten class days of receiving the written appeal, the Exceptions Committee shall notify the Dean that an appeal has been filed.
- The Dean will forward his/her written report of the appeal review procedures to the Exceptions Committee.
- The Exceptions Committee may request interviews with the student or with others whose information may have bearing on the appeal.
- The Exceptions Committee must reach a decision no later than the last day of regular classes before the final exam period of the semester when the appeal was filed. The Chair of the Committee will inform the student, the Program Director or Division Chair in writing of the decision of the Committee.
- If the Exceptions Committee determines that a procedural error has occurred, the Chair will inform the Provost who will assign the appeal for re-evaluation.
- The decision of the Exceptions Committee is final.
Exceptions/Appeals Process
- Academic Deans or the Academic Exceptions Committee review student requests for an exception to any academic policy or published deadline. The exceptions requests are reviewed and students are notified in writing of the decision. Students are responsible for submitting a complete exception request; incomplete exception requests will not be considered. Students should contact the Academic Affairs Office or their faculty advisor if they have any questions regarding the committee’s procedures.
Exception Request Forms are submitted to the respective dean of the school that grants the credit.
Exceptions by their very nature are unique. Individual circumstances are distinct to each exception request. Decisions are therefore unique to each situation and should not be considered a precedent. Decisions of the Deans and/or Exceptions Committee are final and are not appealable. A processing fee may be assessed to those students whose exceptions incur significant administrative costs.
Academic Deans may authorize the following exceptions:
- for courses taught in their school (both full-time faculty and adjuncts):
- Late adds
- Late drops/withdrawals within the semester of enrollment
- Changing from enrolled for credit to audit or audit to credit
- Extension of deadlines for incompletes
- Extension of the deadline for grade appeals
- NSP late adds, drops and withdrawals will be reviewed by the Dean of Arts and Sciences
- Graduate Program only: Exceptions to maximum hours transferrable compliant with applicable accreditation standards
- Ordinarily, students will meet first with the instructor and then with the Division Chair before the Dean will rule on the exception.
- Deans should recuse themselves in cases where a conflict of interest exists.
- Exception requests filed with the Dean must use the official form, submitted to the Dean’s administrative assistant. The student must collect all appropriate signatures before the Dean may consider the request (in extraordinary cases the Dean may choose to act before one or more of these signatures are collected).
- The Dean will respond to all requests for exception in writing.
- Exception decisions must be forwarded to the appropriate offices (advisor, Registrar, Student Accounts, etc.).
- A copy of all exception request forms and ruling letters must be stored in the electronic exception archive.
- If the Dean’s position is temporarily vacant, the Chair of the Exceptions Committee will have authority to decide on exceptions for that Dean’s school.
- Late Applications to graduate will comply with the late applications policy.
- The Academic Exceptions Committee has authority to decide all other exception requests.
- The Academic Exceptions Committee will decide requests including but not limited to:
- NSP exceptions concerning course equivalency and substitutions
- Dismissals/suspensions/probations from programs
- Academic Probation/Suspension from the University
- Procedural appeals of Student Affairs probation, suspension or other disciplinary processes
- Concerning exception requests for dismissals/suspensions from programs, the committee will review appeals based on published criteria in the University Catalog.
- Exception requests filed with the Academic Exceptions Committee must use the official form, submitted to the administrative assistant of the student’s school. The student must collect all appropriate signatures before the Academic Exceptions Committee may consider the request (in extraordinary cases the Academic Exceptions Committee may choose to act before one or more of these signatures are collected).
- The Chair of the Academic Exceptions Committee will respond to all requests for exception in writing.
- Exception decisions must be forwarded to the appropriate offices (advisor, Registrar, Student Accounts, etc.).
- A copy of all exception request forms and ruling letters must be stored in the electronic exception archive.
- Concerning exceptions requests for dismissals/suspensions from programs, the committee will review appeals based on published criteria in the Catalog.
- The Exceptions Committee will consist of:
- Assistant Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences (Chair)
- NSP Committee Chairperson, or his/her designee. This member must come from a Baccalaureate Program.
- Three faculty members at large, elected by Faculty Senate. One each from a Baccalaureate program, an Associate program and a Graduate program
- Dean of Students (non-voting)
- Registrar (non-voting)
- Representative of the business office (nonvoting), appointed by the CFO.
Advanced Standing Program
In conjunction with selected Wichita area high schools, Newman University has developed the Advanced Standing Program that enables high school students to earn college credit while still attending high school. Only specific high school courses approved for credit through Newman University’s Advanced Standing Committee are acceptable for enrollment. Students must complete an Advanced Standing application packet and obtain the permission of their high school guidance counselor and a parent or legal guardian. A cumulative 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale and junior or senior standing in high school are required.
Advanced Standing students who wish to continue their studies at Newman University after high school are required to complete the Application for Admission and submit all required application materials.
Cooperative Education
Cooperative Education utilizes off-campus resources to place students in business, government, industry, health, and social agencies. Individually designed projects enable students to work directly with professionals in their field to expand upon knowledge gained in the classroom.
Students interested in such field-based internships apply through Academic and Student Support Services and are assisted in securing paid and unpaid internships which combine classroom studies with academically-related employment. Students placed in cooperative programs work with a faculty coordinator who assesses the placement for its potential to provide learning experience relevant to the student’s educational goals, and for determining the amount of academic credit to be earned. Students may enroll for a total of two work-sessions or semesters. A maximum of six credit hours toward graduation may be earned through the Cooperative Education program.
Cooperative Education courses must fit into one of the regularly scheduled time frames for the semester (full semester or 8-week). The published add, drop and withdrawal dates for each session will also apply to Cooperative Education courses.
Dual Degree Programs
The Three-Two Occupational Therapy Option offers students an opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in five years instead of the six years it typically requires. To participate, students would complete three years at Newman University, taking courses required for a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in biology. As part of their undergraduate program, students would also take prerequisite courses for the occupational therapy program. Upon completion of their undergraduate courses, they would make application to Washington University to complete the remaining two years of courses for a master’s degree in occupational therapy. When the first year in the master’s program is successfully completed, students will apply for a bachelor’s degree from Newman, then continue at Washington University to complete the master’s degree in occupational therapy.
A dual degree program in biology and medical technology is offered to students who complete the general education and major requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in biology at Newman and then transfer to Wichita State University to complete a bachelor’s degree with a major in medical technology. Credits from the medical technology program at Wichita State University will be accepted as transfer credit to allow students to meet the total hour requirement for a bachelor’s degree from Newman.
Newman University’s biomedical science major supports an agreement with Wichita State University for a 3+2 program, the successful completion of which will result in a bachelor of science degree from Newman and a master of science degree in biomedical engineering from Wichita State University in as few as five years Credits from the M.S. in biomedical engineering program will be accepted as transfer credit to Newman University to allow students to complete both the 124 total hour requirement as well as the 40 upper division hour requirement.
Service Option
Newman University seeks to create opportunities for students to serve their community and to learn from these experiences through integration with course work.
A student may obtain an additional hour of credit in any course of two or more credit hours by satisfying the following conditions: 1) obtaining the permission of the instructor of the course; 2) obtaining the permission of the service learning coordinator; 3) Working with the service learning coordinator to find an approved service opportunity and volunteering 30 hours of service in a social service agency; 4) meeting periodically throughout the semester with the service learning coordinator.
A student may sign up for only one service option per semester. A maximum of six hours of credit will be given to a student for graduation using the service option. The student may not use the service option if enrolled in another course which requires a service component.
Study Abroad Opportunities
Students are encouraged to participate in overseas study and exchange programs, which contribute to individual and intercultural development. Financial aid may be available for these programs. Contact Newman’s financial aid office for specific information. Newman offers study abroad opportunities in Europe, Great Britain, and Latin America. The following is a list of study abroad opportunities:
ENGLAND ABROAD-Explore the history and culture of Britain during a three-week stay in England (Late Spring).
EUROPE BY RAIL-Combine a study of European cultures and history visiting several European countries over the course of a three-week trip.
LATIN AMERICA-Explore the history, language, and culture of Latin America during travel to various countries in Latin America. (Summer)
NEWMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM-Newman University students may engage in a semester exchange with Newman University College Birmingham in England. (NUC Birmingham is an independent institution separate from Newman University in Wichita.)
Outreach Sites
Kansas
Newman University maintains a Kansas regional center in Dodge City. Evening and weekend courses are offered at several sites in Central and Western Kansas through Interactive Television or a traditional classroom setting. Course offerings include bachelor’s degree completion programs in Elementary Education and Pastoral Ministry. A bachelor’s degree completion program in Elementary Education is also offered in Southeast Kansas at Independence Community College and at Labette Community College. Graduate level education courses leading to licensure endorsement and or a degree are offered at numerous sites other than the Newman campus.
Oklahoma
In cooperation with the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Archdiocese of Tulsa, Newman University offers a degree in Pastoral Ministry. The complete program of 10 courses or the equivalent of 30 college hours, is offered at various sites in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and in Tulsa.
Colorado
At its site in Colorado Springs, Newman University offers a Master of Social Work (MSW) program, and will begin offering a Bachelor of Social Work program in the fall of 2019. MSW classes are scheduled mainly in evenings and on weekends to accommodate working professionals, and all MSW classes are held in person at the Newman site. Contact the Newman office at 719-520-1214 for further information.
Arkansas
Newman University, in cooperation with the Catholic Diocese of Arkansas, supports the academic development of men in discernment for priestly vocation. Study at this location is only available to members of the Seminarian House of Formation of the Catholic Diocese of Little Rock and for a single program of study as approved by the State of Arkansas.
The B.A. degree in Philosophy of Theological Studies consists of 124 credit hours including General Education and the Newman Studies Program to earn the Bachelor of Arts degree designation.
Veteran Benefits and Certifications
Newman University programs are approved for Veterans Educational Benefits. Veterans and their dependents and spouses may be eligible for educational benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Students who hope to receive veterans’ educational benefits at Newman University should request a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA at 1-888-GI BILL-1 or through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website. The VA will determine whether or not a student is eligible for VA educational benefits. The Registrar’s Office at Newman University requires a current copy of the COE before the student’s first semester. In addition, an Enrollment Certification Request for VA Education Benefits form must be submitted to the Registrar’s Office prior to the start of each semester a student plans to use VA educational benefits These documents must be completed and submitted to the Registrar’s Office before certification can be processed.
Newman University is proud to participate in The Yellow Ribbon GI Educational Enhancement Program, which is designed for qualifying veterans and dependents who wish to attend a private university. A student’s tuition and fees costs may exceed the standard Post-9/11 GI Bill® maximum benefit rate. The Yellow Ribbon Program is an agreement with the VA to help cover the additional costs. The VA will match Newman’s additional contribution dollar-for-dollar so the student can attend Newman for little to no cost.
GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
Veteran Benefits and Transition Act Of 2018 - Section 103, Pl 115-407
Newman University does not impose any penalty, including assessment of late fees, deny access to classes, libraries or other institutional facilities, or require a Chapter 31 or Chapter 33 recipient to borrow additional funds to cover the individual’s inability to meet his/her financial obligations to Newman University due to the delayed disbursement of a payment by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This applies only if the payments are not received within 90 days of the beginning of the term.
Students are required to provide documentation to ensure they are entitled to GI Bill Benefits no later than the first day of the educational program in which they are enrolling.
The restriction on penalties would not apply in cases where the student owes additional payment to Newman University beyond the amount of the tuition and fee payment from VA to Newman.
Military Credit
For students who have earned academic credits while in military service, and which are recorded on a Joint Service Transcript, credit will be accepted per the recommendation of the American Council on Education, provided it otherwise meets the criteria for transfer of credit to Newman University. Students should submit an official Joint Services Transcript along with their application for admission to Newman University.
Military TDY
Newman University is committed to working with our students who are active duty military personnel. Active duty service members may receive orders for a temporary duty station (TDY).
The policy followed at Newman University is:
- If the TDY is more than three weeks long and the military student knows ahead of time, the student is not enrolled in the class.
- The faculty member works with the military student going on TDY by doing the following:
- If the TDY falls during the beginning of the course and the faculty member does not think the student can make up the course work, the instructor can suggest the student withdraw from the course and submit a request to the Exceptions Committee to authorize a full tuition refund for the course.
- If the TDY falls at the end of the semester, the faculty member can either give the student an incomplete, allow completion of the coursework/test when the student returns, or allow early completion of the coursework/test.
Continuing Education Units (CEU)
The CEU (Continuing Education Unit) is a nationally recognized means of quantifying continuing education learning activities. Students will be able to take non college courses and receive CEU credit in their quest for personal and/or professional enrichment.
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